Ride and Seek Bicycle Adventures

Embark on an unforgettable cycling journey from Córdoba to Tarifa, tracing the enduring legacy of the Moors through the heart of Andalusia - Andalucia (Al-Andalus) - reliving battles and culture, unveiling the enduring narrative of conquest and coexistence.

Our adventure begins in Córdoba, where Islamic architecture and Christian heritage entwine beneath the arches of the Mezquita. From there, we ride through storied towns such as Granada and Antequera—landmarks of the Reconquista and living testaments to a dramatic past. As we cycle southward, the landscapes shift from olive groves to coastal breezes, culminating in the whitewashed charm of Tarifa, where Europe meets Africa and history meets horizon.

Throughout this route, you’ll experience the historical evolution of the region, from the Muslim rule of Al-Andalus to the Christian victories that ultimately led to the end of the Reconquista. The architectural, cultural, and geographical elements you encounter will provide a rich understanding of the complex history of the Iberian Peninsula during this period.

Highlights

• Cordoba: Explore the Mezquita-Catedral. A symbol of the religious transition from Islam to Christianity, as it was initially a mosque before being converted into a cathedral.
• Tapas Bars: Indulge in a tapas crawl, savouring traditional dishes like salmorejo, grilled octopus, and Iberian ham.
• Sierra Nevada: Enjoy challenging cycling through the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which acted as a natural boundary between Christian and Muslim territories during the Reconquista.
• Granada: Discover the Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress complex built by the Nasrid dynasty, representing the Muslim rule in the region.
• Flamenco in Sacromonte: Experience flamenco in the historic Sacromonte caves, where the art form has deep roots.
• Ronda: Reflect on the strategic importance of Ronda as a fortified settlement during the Reconquista and marvel at its dramatic position atop cliffs, the blend of Moorish heritage, and stunning vistas.
• Culinary Delights: Sample Andalusian cuisine, including tapas, gazpacho, and local specialties.
• Scenic Routes: Experience the stunning countryside as you ride through olive groves, vineyards, and farmlands.
• White Villages (Pueblos Blancos): Explore charming white-washed villages like Ronda and Grazalema, each nestled in picturesque landscapes.
• Tarifa: Conclude your journey in Tarifa, where the Reconquista effectively ended with the capture of the city in 1292.

Join us on our inaugural cycling adventure through Colombia, a country that pulses with life, colour, and rhythm at every turn. From the high-energy streets of Bogotá to the colonial elegance of Cartagena, this journey reveals the full sweep of Colombia’s cultural and geographical diversity — soaring mountains, lush coffee plantations, and sun-drenched Caribbean coastlines. Along the way, you’ll meet warm, welcoming locals, savour traditional dishes, and experience the country’s infectious passion for cycling.

Cycling is one of Colombia’s national sports, and that enthusiasm translates to the road. Drivers are accustomed to sharing the road with riders, and cycling is an integral part of everyday life. With good road conditions and a strong local cycling culture, Colombia provides a safe and welcoming environment for exploring on two wheels.

Our tour is designed for riders who seek both adventure and discovery. Journey through Colombia’s rolling Andean landscapes and uncover a country rich in spirit and story — from the vibrant energy of Bogotá and Medellín to the cobblestoned charm of Villa de Leyva and the aromatic allure of the Coffee Triangle. Every stop reveals a different side of Colombia’s captivating soul.

There are certainly plenty of hills in Colombia, but we’ve carefully designed a route that strikes the perfect balance — with extra riding options for those seeking more challenge, while keeping the core itinerary accessible within our three and half-espresso-cup grading. It’s a ride that rewards both the strong and the steady, blending scenic climbs with cultural immersion at every turn.

Woven through this journey is the story of Simón Bolívar, “El Libertador,” whose vision of freedom and unity still shapes Colombia’s identity today. Cycling through this stunning landscape, you’ll feel that same spirit of independence and pride that defines the nation. With its strong cycling heritage, world-class athletes, and ever-growing reputation as a safe and welcoming destination, Colombia is the perfect setting for our next great adventure on two wheels.

Developed in collaboration between our General Manager, Ben Weigl, and our local partner, Tomás, this tour combines Ride & Seek’s Epic Bike Tour methodology with the authentic local knowledge and passion that make Colombia such an exceptional destination. The result is a wonderful first South American adventure — a journey that celebrates stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and the joy of exploring one of the world’s most inspiring cycling nations.

Highlights

• The Andes Mountains: Colombia’s stunning Andean region provides a plethora of challenging climbs and rewarding descents, offering some of the most scenic cycling routes in the world.
• The Ciclovía: Bogotá has embraced cycling culture and hosts a weekly Ciclovía, where major roads are closed for cyclists and pedestrians. This will be our warm-up ride!
• Climb to Alto de Letras – an 80 kilometer ascent of more than 3,600 meters elevation
• Discover the Zona Cafetera: Colombia’s coffee region and a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Discover Medellin: A city with a captivating charm, from its lush landscapes to dynamic urban culture, warm people, exciting nightlife, and a remarkable transformation.
• Local Hospitality: Colombian culture is famously warm and welcoming. Did we mention that cycling is also hugely popular too?
• Stay in restored haciendas (Spanish-style farming estate) offering warm hospitality and authentic Colombian meals.
• Explore Cartagena, the tour’s finish: It’s enchanting old town, vibrant streets, historic fortifications, beautiful beaches, and delightful Caribbean cuisine for an unforgettable adventure

Our Norsemen tour has been a long time in the making—on our radar since the early days of Ride and Seek and consistently topping the wishlists in our end-of-year surveys. After years of dreaming, planning, and scouting, we’re proud to offer a cycling experience that captures the very best of Norway’s breathtaking landscapes.

From the dramatic fjords of the west coast to the rugged, otherworldly beauty of the Lofoten Islands above the Arctic Circle, this tour is a true epic. You’ll fjord-hop from Trondheim to Bergen, ride along stunning coastal routes, and experience some of the most scenic and rewarding cycling in the world.

We’ve poured our passion and expertise into crafting an itinerary that showcases the raw magic of this remarkable country. If you’ve ever dreamed of cycling through Norway’s untamed wilderness, Norsemen delivers an unforgettable adventure that’s well worth the wait.

Stage 1: Lofoten Islands As you embark on a cycle ride through the mythical landscapes of the Lofoten Islands, you are transported back in time to the days of the fearless Norsemen. The rugged coastal terrain and majestic mountains mirror the spirits of these seafaring warriors who once roamed these very shores. Early in your journey, we arrive in Svolvær, where the modern world meets ancient legends. Pedalling along the winding coastal roads, you pass charming fishing villages where weathered wooden boats rest in the embrace of tranquil fjords. The scent of the salty sea breeze invigorates your senses, evoking memories of Viking ships navigating the vast ocean.

Your ride takes you through dramatic landscapes, surrounded by towering cliffs and the distant call of seagulls. Each bend in the road reveals a new breathtaking vista, and you imagine the Norsemen gazing upon these same vistas with a mix of awe and reverence. In Henningsvær, a picturesque village seemingly floating on the water, you pause to admire its timeless beauty. The ancient fisherman huts, called rorbuer, still stand as a testament to the resilient spirits of those who once braved the tempestuous seas. As the midnight sun hovers on the horizon, you are captivated by the enchanting play of light and shadows. The ethereal glow of the sunlit peaks transports you to the realm of Norse mythology, where gods and giants once shaped the world.

Stage 2: Trondheim to Bergen Your cycle ride from Trondheim to Bergen takes you through a historic path that resonates with the echoes of the Norsemen’s footsteps. Leaving Trondheim, the city of ancient kings and vibrant history, you venture into the rugged landscapes of the Norwegian heartland. The road winds through rolling hills and dense forests, evoking images of Viking explorers navigating the vast wilderness in search of new lands and riches. As you pass through quaint villages, you can’t help but imagine the Norse communities that once thrived here, living off the land and the sea’s bounty.

The climb up Trollstigen, the Troll’s Path, challenges your mettle just as it did the warriors of old. As you conquer this winding mountain road, you feel a sense of triumph akin to the victorious Norsemen returning from their expeditions. Descending towards the Geirangerfjord, the breathtaking beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage site reminds you of the Norse legends that often involved these dramatic landscapes. The cascading waterfalls and towering cliffs seem like the backdrop of ancient sagas, where gods and heroes weaved tales of valour and heroism.

Continuing south, the Hardangerfjord greets you with its picturesque orchards and serene waters. The Norsemen were skilled navigators, and you appreciate their mastery of these treacherous fjords as you pedal along the water’s edge. In Voss, known for its adrenaline-pumping activities, you can’t help but feel a kinship with the adventurous spirit of the Norse warriors. The thrill of conquering nature’s challenges echoes the daring feats of those who embraced the call of the wild.

Finally, you arrive in Bergen, a city steeped in history and maritime heritage. The colourful houses of Bryggen Wharf are a reminder of the bustling trade and exploration that once defined this Hanseatic port. Both rides immerse you in the world of the Norsemen, allowing you to connect with their spirit of exploration, resilience, and appreciation for the awe-inspiring beauty of the Nordic landscapes.

Follow in the footsteps of the Celts on a captivating cycling tour from Edinburgh to Dublin. Ride through Scotland and Ireland’s dramatic landscapes, rich with history, legend, and natural beauty.

The Celts tour has been years in the making, inspired by childhood bike trips through the Scottish countryside — experiences that shaped the spirit of discovery and adventure at the heart of this journey and Ride and Seek itself. Conceptualised in-house and crafted with the insight of our trusted local contacts, this tour reflects our passion for immersive travel and cultural connection. It’s a route we’re incredibly proud of, blending stunning landscapes with rich Celtic heritage across Scotland and Ireland.

Join us on a cycling adventure through the heart of Celtic lands, as we journey from the medieval streets of Edinburgh to the vibrant city of Dublin. This unforgettable route is steeped in myth, history, and breathtaking scenery, taking you across Scotland’s rugged Highlands and along Ireland’s wild Atlantic coastline. Along the way, you’ll pedal past ancient battlegrounds, mysterious stone circles, and storied castles that echo with the voices of the past.

Divided into two stages, our epic tour combines some of the finest cycling routes in the British Isles with a rich cultural immersion. From the dramatic, windswept mountains of the Scottish Highlands to the rolling emerald hills of Ireland, every kilometre resonates with the spirit of the Celts — a proud, enduring people whose legacy has shaped the identity and soul of these lands long before recorded history.

Experience firsthand how Celtic traditions, legends, and resilience continue to influence life today. More than just a cycling tour, this is a journey through time and across two nations whose landscapes and cultures are forever intertwined. Whether you seek adventure, history, or a deeper connection to these ancient lands, this Ride and Seek tour promises an inspiring and unforgettable experience from start to finish.

Pedal across borders, reliving battles and culture, unveiling the enduring narrative of conquest and coexistence.

Embark on an immersive two-stage cycling odyssey from Cordoba to Fez, delving into the heart of the Reconquista’s legacy. Stage one begins in Cordoba, Spain, leading through iconic towns like Granada and Antequera, each echoing the Reconquista’s historic drama. Pedal through shifting landscapes, crossing the Strait of Gibraltar by ferry.

In stage two, explore Morocco’s enchanting terrain, tracing the Reconquista’s footsteps through Tangier. Journey onwards, reaching Fez, a city steeped in medieval history. This extraordinary expedition fuses cycling with cultural exploration, unveiling the intricate tapestry of the Reconquista across two nations, igniting the spirit of discovery.

Highlights Cardoba to Tarifa

• Cordoba: Explore the Mezquita-Catedral. A symbol of the religious transition from Islam to Christianity, as it was initially a mosque before being converted into a cathedral.
• Tapas Bars: Indulge in a tapas crawl, savouring traditional dishes like salmorejo, grilled octopus, and Iberian ham.
• Sierra Nevada: Enjoy challenging cycling through the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which acted as a natural boundary between Christian and Muslim territories during the Reconquista.
• Granada: Discover the Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress complex built by the Nasrid dynasty, representing the Muslim rule in the region.
• Flamenco in Sacromonte: Experience flamenco in the historic Sacromonte caves, where the art form has deep roots.
• Ronda: Reflect on the strategic importance of Ronda as a fortified settlement during the Reconquista and marvel at its dramatic position atop cliffs, the blend of Moorish heritage, and stunning vistas.
• Culinary Delights: Sample Andalusian cuisine, including tapas, gazpacho, and local specialties.
• Scenic Routes: Experience the stunning countryside as you ride through olive groves, vineyards, and farmlands.
• White Villages (Pueblos Blancos): Explore charming white-washed villages like Ronda and Grazalema, each nestled in picturesque landscapes.
• Tarifa: Conclude your journey in Tarifa, where the Reconquista effectively ended with the capture of the city in 1292.

Highlights Tarifa to Fez

• Tangier: Start your cycling journey in Tangier, a city with a mix of Moroccan, European, and African influences.
• Riads: Stay in traditional riads, Moroccan-style guesthouses known for their intricately designed courtyards, mosaic tiles, and serene atmosphere.
• Chefchaouen: Enjoy a picturesque ride to Chefchaouen, Morocco’s “Blue Pearl”.
• Meknes: Visit Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, and explore its historic medina and grand city gates.
• Berber Whiskey: Sip on Moroccan mint tea, a fragrant blend of green tea, fresh mint, and sugar, commonly enjoyed throughout the day.
• Volubilis: Visit the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the well-preserved mosaics, arches, and columns.
• Scenic Cycling: Pedal through rolling hills, olive groves, and picturesque valleys, taking in the beauty of Morocco’s natural scenery.
• Wellness & Relaxation: After a day of cycling, relax in hammams (traditional bathhouses) or enjoy wellness treatments to rejuvenate your body and mind.
• Diverse Cuisine: Savor tagines, couscous dishes, and Moroccan salads, enjoying the unique blend of sweet and savoury elements.
• Fez: Explore the sprawling medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its iconic tanneries.

Our routes follow ancient and meandering roads, which tend to be smooth, narrow and with very little traffic. The Honshu (the main island) stages offer a smorgasbord of culture and history, from castles and classic gardens to landscapes and towns left mostly unchanged for over 400 years. The Kii & Izu peninsulas evoke the ancient Samurai warriors of days gone by. The Japanese Alps, with its heavy winter snowfalls, prevented some villages from modernising are frozen in time. These living ancient villages are now UNESCO protected and allow us to see how life was lived for hundreds of years and the architecture that made life in such a challenging environment not only possible but highly productive and comfortable.

Kyoto, famous for its temples and garden, is where we spend our rest day between the Honshu and Shikoku Tour.

Highlights

• Visit the enchanting alpine village of Shirakawago that has attained UNESCO status for its multi-story 17th century steep grass-thatched farmhouses.
• Ride through the lands of the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Routes- ancient, spiritual paths through lush forests leading to grand shrines and breathtaking waterfalls.
• Discover the ancient art of cormorant fishing on the Nagaragawa River in Gifu City.
• Visit the famous Nachi Falls, Japan’s tallest waterfall, and the Seiganto-ji Temple, which offers spectacular views through this ancient valley.
• Cycle through the stunning coastal scenery and quaint fishing villages of the Kii Peninsula.

This is a standalone tour, however there is an additional Shikoku Tour that links with additional stages in Honshu and Kyushu, and forms part of the Samurai Epic Tour.

Here we will cycle through the magnificent Iya Gorge and tackle Mt Ishizuchi, Western Japan’s highest peak at 1982m (6503ft). Enjoy thrilling descents, pass terraced rice paddies, traditional thatched-roof houses, and ancient villages clinging to the mountainsides.

The tour culminates with the spectacular Shimanami Kaido, a series of suspension bridges that connect small islands, offering stunning views of the inland sea and linking Shikoku back to Honshu.

Shikoku is also famous for its pilgrimage of the 88 temples associated with the Buddhist priest Kuka, known as Kobo-Daishi. Modern-day pilgrims, called ‘Henro’ by the locals, still tackle the 1200-kilometre route, many of them sporting traditional white clothing, sedge hats and kongō-zue walking sticks.

Highlights – Explore the ancient Samurai roads and learn about this fascinating period in history. – Indulge yourself in the natural hot springs offered by most of our accommodations. – Discover the unique tastes of Japanese cuisine that are distinct and varied across the islands. – Experience the delights of Japanese style inns that offer a very different hotel experience to what you might be used to. – Share your route with pilgrims travelling in homage to the Buddhist saint, Kobo Daishi and visit some of the 88 temples that make up this 1,200-year-old pilgrimage. – Climb over the highest mountain in Western Japan – Mt Ishizuchi (1982m / 6502ft) – Cycle along Japan’s last pure waterway, the stunning crystal clear Shimanto River. – Traverse the amazing 60km+ long Shimanami Kaido bikeway, a series of suspension bridges and six small islands that link Shikoku with the main island, Honshu.

Longer routes are available throughout the tour for those wanting more daily riding and elevation.

Setting off from our base near Mont Ventoux, we conquer the Giant of Provence before tracing the Vercors, believed to be part of Hannibal’s journey over the Alps. Our destination? The legendary 21 switchbacks of Alpe d’Huez, where riders can join or depart. The return journey follows the historic Route Napoleon via Sisteron, immersing cyclists in its storied past. This route not only offers exhilarating cycling challenges but also invites riders to connect with the rich tapestry of history woven into the landscapes of Provence and the French Alps. Join us for a journey that promises both physical exhilaration and a deep appreciation for the historical context of the regions we traverse.

Our ultimate loop ride, from Mont Ventoux to Alpe d’Huez and back, builds on a decade of our Hannibal tour legacy. This fusion of history and epic cycling creates an unparalleled adventure. Riders journey through time, pedalling across landscapes steeped in ancient lore and modern cycling legend.

Highlights

• Conquer the iconic Mont Ventoux, a challenging ascent renowned among cyclists for its steep gradients and stunning vistas.
• Tackle the famous 21 switchbacks of Alpe d’Huez, an iconic climb steeped in cycling history and offering breathtaking panoramic views at the summit.
• Indulge in exquisite Provençal cuisine and local wines along the route, savouring the flavours of the region’s rich culinary heritage amidst picturesque vineyards and charming villages.
• Experience the stunning landscapes of the Vercors, with its dramatic limestone cliffs and lush forests providing a breathtaking backdrop for your ride.

Ride and Seek's 3 Islands Epic takes riders across three sun-kissed islands at the crossroads of the Mediterranean: French Corsica and Italy's Sardinia and Sicily. Split into three week-long stages, the tour is a journey through the history, food, architecture and traditions of each island, shaped by Phoenician, Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman and Aragonese influences. Rugged mountain interiors meet coastlines of white beaches and emerald water, and the locals have a fierce sense of place.

The route runs north to south. In Corsica, Napoleon's birthplace, riders loop Cap Corse from Bastia, then follow the quieter, more scenic west coast past the red granite of the Calanche di Piana and the prehistoric statues of Filitosa to clifftop Bonifacio. A short ferry crossing leads to Sardinia, where the route traces the Gallura coast and the Phoenician-rich west coast via Catalan Alghero, the Nuraghi and the islands of Carloforte and Sant'Antioco, finishing in Cagliari. An overnight ferry then delivers riders to Palermo for the final stage across southern Sicily, taking in Selinunte, the Valley of the Temples and the Baroque towns of Ragusa and Siracusa.

Each stage can be booked on its own or combined into the full 26-day Island Hopper. Graded 3 Espresso Cups, it suits fit riders who enjoy long days and regular climbing, rewarded by Corsican charcuterie and wine, Sardinian culurgiones and Sicilian cassata. Accommodation ranges from converted monasteries to a family-run agriturismo, many with sea views, and the guiding team brings deep local knowledge to every day.

Highlights

• Cycle the Cap Corse loop and Corsica's west coast, including the Calanche di Piana and the UNESCO-listed Scandola Reserve
• Explore the prehistoric site of Filitosa and finish Corsica in clifftop Bonifacio
• Discover Catalan Alghero, a well-preserved Nuraghe and the Genoese islands of Carloforte and Sant'Antioco
• Visit the archaeological site of Nora and spend a free day in Cagliari
• Guided visit to the Valley of the Temples, plus the ruins of Selinunte
• Baroque Ragusa and Siracusa, and outstanding island food and wine throughout

Surface and terrain
Mostly good sealed roads, riding bay to bay along the coast with occasional inland mountain passes. Undulating to mountainous; the operator's 3-cup grading indicates climbs averaging 3-4 km and up to 10 km.

Weather
September is late summer in the Mediterranean: warm to hot days of around 24-30°C, mostly dry and sunny, with the sea at its warmest. Coastal winds can be strong, and the odd thunderstorm is possible later in the month.

Suitable for
Fit, regular riders comfortable with 70-115 km days and 1,000-2,000 m of climbing at a strong tempo (operator's 3 Espresso Cups). Ideal for those who value history, food and culture as much as the riding. Single stages offer a shorter commitment.

Join us on a ride of historical proportions as we conquer the legendary climbs of the Pyrenees, Alps, and Dolomites on a journey from the Atlantic to the Adriatic—Biarritz to Venice. Along the way, we’ll take on a host of routes immortalised by the Grand Tours, riding through some of Europe’s most iconic and picturesque landscapes. This is not just a cycling trip—it’s a true pilgrimage for lovers of the sport.

Divided into three stages, the Hannibal Tour delivers some of the finest cycling imaginable. Picture-postcard views unfold as we climb the great passes of the Pyrenees, roll through the vineyards of Languedoc and Provence, and cross the mighty Alps into Piedmont. From there, we ride past the glittering lakes of Maggiore and Como, before taking on the legendary Stelvio. Finally, we traverse the dramatic Dolomites, descending toward our triumphant finish in La Serenissima—Venice.

Not for the faint-hearted, this tour is a pinnacle ride that belongs on the bucket list of every true cycling connoisseur. As a bona fide four-espresso-cup challenge, it demands respect—the more training you put in, the more rewarding the experience will be.

We begin in the vibrant coastal city of Biarritz and follow a route punctuated by two-night stops that enrich the cultural immersion of the journey. Along the way, highlights include the medieval fortress of Carcassonne, the cycling mecca of Bédoin, the spa town of Bagnères-de-Luchon, the lavender-scented streets of Sault, and the truffle capital Alba.

The journey culminates with a fitting finale in Venice, a city as timeless and spectacular as the ride itself. Whether you take it on stage by stage or as one immense epic, this is a ride that will stay with you forever.